Mental health and addiction inquiry begins

A government inquiry has started asking New Zealanders for their thoughts on how to help the increasing number of people suffering mental health and addiction problems. Public consultation for the Inquiry into Mental Health and Addiction begins today and the government has already said the sector needs significant change. It says about 20 percent of New Zealanders meet the criteria for a diagnosable mental disorder each year and about half get no treatment at all. Former Health and Disability Commissioner Ron Paterson is chairing the inquiry.